HST 150 Module #13
Do You Believe in Magic?
The impact of science on human civilization has been profound and far-reaching. Its evolution can be traced from ancient to medieval times, leaving a lasting legacy on modern science, technology, and medicine. Yet, the journey of science during this epoch was fraught with obstacles and debates, and it is vital to explore this period to comprehend the duality of science's history. The contributions of our forebears in science form the bedrock of knowledge that we rely on today. However, examining the darker side of this era is crucial to glean insight into the pitfalls that science can encounter. We can move forward with greater awareness and wisdom only by learning from the past.
Let me tell you about the big brains of the past. The Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans - knew their science. Take the Egyptians, for instance. They knew their way around anatomy and used that knowledge to perfect the art of embalming and building more elaborate tombs than a Rubik's cube. But that's not all; the Greeks were no slouches either. They were the pioneers of math, philosophy, and medicine. You know Euclid, right? He was a big shot in geometry and wrote a textbook called The Elements that was used for centuries. And then there's Hippocrates, who lived around 400 BCE. That guy's the father of modern medicine and made some significant contributions to the field. He even developed the Hippocratic Oath, which is still in use today. These guys were no joke, I tell you.
The medieval era was when Islamic scientists and scholars were making waves in astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. The legendary Persian scholar, Al-Khwarizmi, was one of the heavyweights of this time, having developed the complex subject of algebra and pioneering the concept of algorithms. Meanwhile, the renowned Arab physician and philosopher Ibn Sina, or Avicenna as he was commonly known, was a force to be reckoned with. Around 1000 CE, he authored the Canon of Medicine, a masterpiece that became a standard medical textbook across Europe for many a moon. These were genuinely remarkable figures of their time, leaving an indelible mark on the world of science and medicine that would be felt for centuries.
So, here's the deal: when it comes to science, it's a never-ending battle between what's already known and what could be discovered. And as history has shown us repeatedly, only some are on board with embracing new ideas. Take the case of Socrates, the OG philosopher of ancient Greece, who was sentenced to death simply for questioning the status quo. Then you've got Ibn al-Haytham, an Islamic scholar from a millennium ago, who got in trouble for daring to challenge long-held beliefs with his scientific ideas. Progress comes at a cost; the price was high in these cases.
Despite some gnarly bumps in the road, the ancient and medieval periods have paved the way for some serious breakthroughs in modern science and technology. For instance, algebra, geometry, and algorithms laid the foundation for the super groovy computer science we dig into today. And let's remember medicine. The advancements during this era opened up some seriously wild opportunities for the medical field to flourish and grow. These contributions may have been made ages ago, but they still influence our world today.
Know ye, delving into the annals of antiquity and the medieval age in pursuit of scientific lore is paramount to apprehending the glories and flaws of science throughout history. 'Tis a means to acknowledge the feats wrought by men and nations and to glean wisdom from their pitfalls and trials. Furthermore, it grants insight into the evolution of science and the arts of industry and their influence over the populace.
As we draw to a close, let us acknowledge the pivotal role science has played in the grand tapestry of human civilization. From the annals of antiquity to the labyrinthine corridors of medieval times, science has been an ever-present force in the progression of humanity. The toils and labors of our forebears have yielded a cornucopia of insights and advancements that have irrevocably shaped the landscape of modern science, technology, and medicine. Yet, let us not be blinded by the sparkle of scientific achievement, for the journey toward enlightenment was fraught with its share of tribulations and controversies. Formidable obstacles beset the path, and many brave souls made untold sacrifices to pursue knowledge. Indeed, the era that saw the birth of modern science was not without its blemishes, and it is incumbent upon us to study this chapter of history with a discerning eye. We can forge a brighter future for all by understanding the good and bad, the light and shadow.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
The impact of science on human civilization has been profound and far-reaching. Its evolution can be traced from ancient to medieval times, leaving a lasting legacy on modern science, technology, and medicine. Yet, the journey of science during this epoch was fraught with obstacles and debates, and it is vital to explore this period to comprehend the duality of science's history. The contributions of our forebears in science form the bedrock of knowledge that we rely on today. However, examining the darker side of this era is crucial to glean insight into the pitfalls that science can encounter. We can move forward with greater awareness and wisdom only by learning from the past.
Let me tell you about the big brains of the past. The Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans - knew their science. Take the Egyptians, for instance. They knew their way around anatomy and used that knowledge to perfect the art of embalming and building more elaborate tombs than a Rubik's cube. But that's not all; the Greeks were no slouches either. They were the pioneers of math, philosophy, and medicine. You know Euclid, right? He was a big shot in geometry and wrote a textbook called The Elements that was used for centuries. And then there's Hippocrates, who lived around 400 BCE. That guy's the father of modern medicine and made some significant contributions to the field. He even developed the Hippocratic Oath, which is still in use today. These guys were no joke, I tell you.
The medieval era was when Islamic scientists and scholars were making waves in astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. The legendary Persian scholar, Al-Khwarizmi, was one of the heavyweights of this time, having developed the complex subject of algebra and pioneering the concept of algorithms. Meanwhile, the renowned Arab physician and philosopher Ibn Sina, or Avicenna as he was commonly known, was a force to be reckoned with. Around 1000 CE, he authored the Canon of Medicine, a masterpiece that became a standard medical textbook across Europe for many a moon. These were genuinely remarkable figures of their time, leaving an indelible mark on the world of science and medicine that would be felt for centuries.
So, here's the deal: when it comes to science, it's a never-ending battle between what's already known and what could be discovered. And as history has shown us repeatedly, only some are on board with embracing new ideas. Take the case of Socrates, the OG philosopher of ancient Greece, who was sentenced to death simply for questioning the status quo. Then you've got Ibn al-Haytham, an Islamic scholar from a millennium ago, who got in trouble for daring to challenge long-held beliefs with his scientific ideas. Progress comes at a cost; the price was high in these cases.
Despite some gnarly bumps in the road, the ancient and medieval periods have paved the way for some serious breakthroughs in modern science and technology. For instance, algebra, geometry, and algorithms laid the foundation for the super groovy computer science we dig into today. And let's remember medicine. The advancements during this era opened up some seriously wild opportunities for the medical field to flourish and grow. These contributions may have been made ages ago, but they still influence our world today.
Know ye, delving into the annals of antiquity and the medieval age in pursuit of scientific lore is paramount to apprehending the glories and flaws of science throughout history. 'Tis a means to acknowledge the feats wrought by men and nations and to glean wisdom from their pitfalls and trials. Furthermore, it grants insight into the evolution of science and the arts of industry and their influence over the populace.
As we draw to a close, let us acknowledge the pivotal role science has played in the grand tapestry of human civilization. From the annals of antiquity to the labyrinthine corridors of medieval times, science has been an ever-present force in the progression of humanity. The toils and labors of our forebears have yielded a cornucopia of insights and advancements that have irrevocably shaped the landscape of modern science, technology, and medicine. Yet, let us not be blinded by the sparkle of scientific achievement, for the journey toward enlightenment was fraught with its share of tribulations and controversies. Formidable obstacles beset the path, and many brave souls made untold sacrifices to pursue knowledge. Indeed, the era that saw the birth of modern science was not without its blemishes, and it is incumbent upon us to study this chapter of history with a discerning eye. We can forge a brighter future for all by understanding the good and bad, the light and shadow.
THE RUNDOWN
- Science has had a profound impact on human civilization, leaving a lasting legacy on modern science, technology, and medicine.
- The journey of science was filled with obstacles and debates, and it is crucial to examine this period to comprehend the duality of science's history.
- The contributions of our forebears in science form the bedrock of knowledge that we rely on today, but examining the darker side of this era is crucial to learn from past pitfalls.
- The Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Islamic scientists made significant contributions to the fields of anatomy, math, philosophy, medicine, astronomy, and algorithms, among others.
- Progress comes at a cost, as seen in cases such as Socrates and Ibn al-Haytham, who faced persecution for questioning the status quo with their scientific ideas.
- Despite some bumps in the road, ancient and medieval periods have paved the way for breakthroughs in modern science and technology, influencing our world today.
- Delving into the annals of antiquity and the medieval age is vital to understanding the glories and flaws of science throughout history and gleaning wisdom from their pitfalls and trials.
- Science has played a pivotal role in the progression of humanity, but it is incumbent upon us to study this chapter of history with a discerning eye to forge a brighter future for all.
QUESTIONS
- What were some of the major contributions made by ancient and medieval scientists and scholars, and how have these contributions impacted modern science and medicine?
- What were some of the challenges that early scientists faced, and how did they navigate these challenges?
- How did the scientific advancements of the ancient and medieval eras lay the foundation for modern science, technology, and medicine?
#13: History Can Be Exceptional, But Not Virtuous
The concept of exceptionalism in history is a matter of semantics, not virtue. While history can be exceptional in being different from the norm, it cannot be virtuous. American exceptionalism is the idea that the United States is unique in its values, political system, and historical development, implying that it is entitled to play a positive role on the world stage. However, this entitlement needs to be revised. The origins of American exceptionalism can be traced back to the American Revolution when the US emerged as the first new nation with distinct ideas based on principles such as liberty, equality before the law, individual responsibility, republicanism, representative democracy, and laissez-faire economics. While some European practices were transmitted to America, the US abolished them during the American Revolution, further confirming its liberalism. This liberalism laid the foundation for American exceptionalism, closely tied to republicanism, believing that sovereignty belonged to the people, not a hereditary ruling class.
The problem with exceptionalism is the assumption that it entitles the US to act as a peerless interloper without questioning its moral scruples. This was seen during the George W. Bush administration. The term was abstracted from its historical context and used to describe a phenomenon where specific political interests viewed the US as "above" or an "exception" to the law, particularly the law of nations. However, history shows that American exceptionalism is morally flawed due to issues such as slavery, civil rights, and social welfare. Even events like the revelations of prisoner abuse at Abu Ghraib prison and the government's incompetence after Hurricane Katrina opened fissures in the myth of exceptionalism. While the US has been remarkably democratic, politically stable, and free of war on its soil compared to most European countries, there have been significant exceptions, such as the American Civil War. Even after the abolition of slavery, the US government ignored the requirements of the Equal Protection Clause concerning African-Americans during the Jim Crow era and women's suffrage until the Nineteenth Amendment to the US Constitution in 1920. The US has also sometimes supported the overthrow of democratically elected governments to pursue other objectives, typically economic and anti-communist.
My dear friends, history is a tapestry woven with the threads of triumph and tragedy, nobility and immortality. We are often enchanted by its tales of human progress and creativity, and rightly so. But let us not forget that history also holds the darkest deeds, the most heinous acts. History can be extraordinary but far from virtuous. To prove my point, I shall delve into the annals of time and highlight certain historical events that exemplify my argument.
Let's start by setting the stage for what we mean by "exceptional" and "virtuous." Exceptional is like a shiny penny in a pile of dirt. It stands out and catches your eye. It's noteworthy, outstanding, or uncommon. It's like a tiger that's a great hunter but also a ruthless killer. Virtuous, on the other hand, is like a beacon of light in the dark. It's actions or behavior that are morally righteous, ethical, or just. When we say that history can be exceptional but not virtuous, we're saying that some events or individuals can be unique regarding their impact, significance, or influence, but that doesn't necessarily mean their actions were virtuous or morally upright. Exceptional? Yes. Virtuous? Not so much.
They said the sun never set on the British Empire for a good reason. Picture this: the British Empire, a behemoth that spanned continents and ruled over countless subjects, was a force to be reckoned with. It was a time of innovation, scientific discovery, and technological advancement. But behind the veneer of greatness and exceptionalism lay a darker truth. The British Empire was built on the backs of the oppressed and the exploited, the blood and sweat of the indigenous peoples who were conquered and subjugated. The British Empire's legacy is colonization, slavery, and racism.
The British Empire brought about significant advancements that changed the course of history. It spread the English language and culture to the far corners of the earth, and its contributions to science, technology, and medicine cannot be understated. But these exceptional achievements came at a high cost that cannot be ignored. The rise of the British Empire is a testament to the duality of human nature. It is a story of greatness, moral ambiguity, exceptionalism, and exploitation. The British Empire may have been exceptional, but it was not virtuous. Its legacy is a reminder that progress must not come at the expense of others and that the ends do not always justify the means.
So, why bother delving into history's more dubious deeds? Because, my friend, it's essential. Sure, it's important to celebrate the heroes and heroines of yore, those paragons of virtue who inspired us all to be better people. But what about the ones who weren't so virtuous? The ones who did some pretty messed up stuff? It turns out that studying those moments of unusual but questionable behavior can help us understand the complexity and nuance of human history. We can learn from the successes and failures of our ancestors and see how their actions have shaped the world we live in today. It's like being a time traveler; instead of a TARDIS or DeLorean, we've got textbooks and archives.
By digging into history, we can better understand the forces that have shaped our societies and cultures. We can start to see the patterns and cycles of human behavior and even recognize the danger of repeating past mistakes. As the great philosopher George Santayana once said, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." And trust me, my friend, we don't want to go down that road again. History is not any virtuous tale of righteousness and goodness. It's a wild ride, full of ups and downs, and even the exceptional moments can be tainted by some serious dirt. Take Qin Shi Huang and the British Empire, for example. Sure, they had moments of greatness, but they left a trail of destruction and oppression in their wake.
But don't get me wrong. We have to celebrate exceptional moments in history. They show us what humans can do when we put our minds to it. However, we can't ignore the dark side of history. We have to learn from it. We must understand that history isn't just a simple tale of heroes and villains. It's a complicated mess of human experiences and actions. So, let's study history with a critical eye. Let's be nuanced in our understanding of the past. Let's recognize that history is messy and complicated, and that's okay. We have to learn from past mistakes so we don't repeat them in the future. Luckily, our history is still being written. The path we take next does not need to lead to bloodshed or heartbreak. It can be a road to continued growth and prosperity and not at the expense of others.
THE RUNDOWN
The concept of exceptionalism in history is a matter of semantics, not virtue. While history can be exceptional in being different from the norm, it cannot be virtuous. American exceptionalism is the idea that the United States is unique in its values, political system, and historical development, implying that it is entitled to play a positive role on the world stage. However, this entitlement needs to be revised. The origins of American exceptionalism can be traced back to the American Revolution when the US emerged as the first new nation with distinct ideas based on principles such as liberty, equality before the law, individual responsibility, republicanism, representative democracy, and laissez-faire economics. While some European practices were transmitted to America, the US abolished them during the American Revolution, further confirming its liberalism. This liberalism laid the foundation for American exceptionalism, closely tied to republicanism, believing that sovereignty belonged to the people, not a hereditary ruling class.
The problem with exceptionalism is the assumption that it entitles the US to act as a peerless interloper without questioning its moral scruples. This was seen during the George W. Bush administration. The term was abstracted from its historical context and used to describe a phenomenon where specific political interests viewed the US as "above" or an "exception" to the law, particularly the law of nations. However, history shows that American exceptionalism is morally flawed due to issues such as slavery, civil rights, and social welfare. Even events like the revelations of prisoner abuse at Abu Ghraib prison and the government's incompetence after Hurricane Katrina opened fissures in the myth of exceptionalism. While the US has been remarkably democratic, politically stable, and free of war on its soil compared to most European countries, there have been significant exceptions, such as the American Civil War. Even after the abolition of slavery, the US government ignored the requirements of the Equal Protection Clause concerning African-Americans during the Jim Crow era and women's suffrage until the Nineteenth Amendment to the US Constitution in 1920. The US has also sometimes supported the overthrow of democratically elected governments to pursue other objectives, typically economic and anti-communist.
My dear friends, history is a tapestry woven with the threads of triumph and tragedy, nobility and immortality. We are often enchanted by its tales of human progress and creativity, and rightly so. But let us not forget that history also holds the darkest deeds, the most heinous acts. History can be extraordinary but far from virtuous. To prove my point, I shall delve into the annals of time and highlight certain historical events that exemplify my argument.
Let's start by setting the stage for what we mean by "exceptional" and "virtuous." Exceptional is like a shiny penny in a pile of dirt. It stands out and catches your eye. It's noteworthy, outstanding, or uncommon. It's like a tiger that's a great hunter but also a ruthless killer. Virtuous, on the other hand, is like a beacon of light in the dark. It's actions or behavior that are morally righteous, ethical, or just. When we say that history can be exceptional but not virtuous, we're saying that some events or individuals can be unique regarding their impact, significance, or influence, but that doesn't necessarily mean their actions were virtuous or morally upright. Exceptional? Yes. Virtuous? Not so much.
They said the sun never set on the British Empire for a good reason. Picture this: the British Empire, a behemoth that spanned continents and ruled over countless subjects, was a force to be reckoned with. It was a time of innovation, scientific discovery, and technological advancement. But behind the veneer of greatness and exceptionalism lay a darker truth. The British Empire was built on the backs of the oppressed and the exploited, the blood and sweat of the indigenous peoples who were conquered and subjugated. The British Empire's legacy is colonization, slavery, and racism.
The British Empire brought about significant advancements that changed the course of history. It spread the English language and culture to the far corners of the earth, and its contributions to science, technology, and medicine cannot be understated. But these exceptional achievements came at a high cost that cannot be ignored. The rise of the British Empire is a testament to the duality of human nature. It is a story of greatness, moral ambiguity, exceptionalism, and exploitation. The British Empire may have been exceptional, but it was not virtuous. Its legacy is a reminder that progress must not come at the expense of others and that the ends do not always justify the means.
So, why bother delving into history's more dubious deeds? Because, my friend, it's essential. Sure, it's important to celebrate the heroes and heroines of yore, those paragons of virtue who inspired us all to be better people. But what about the ones who weren't so virtuous? The ones who did some pretty messed up stuff? It turns out that studying those moments of unusual but questionable behavior can help us understand the complexity and nuance of human history. We can learn from the successes and failures of our ancestors and see how their actions have shaped the world we live in today. It's like being a time traveler; instead of a TARDIS or DeLorean, we've got textbooks and archives.
By digging into history, we can better understand the forces that have shaped our societies and cultures. We can start to see the patterns and cycles of human behavior and even recognize the danger of repeating past mistakes. As the great philosopher George Santayana once said, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." And trust me, my friend, we don't want to go down that road again. History is not any virtuous tale of righteousness and goodness. It's a wild ride, full of ups and downs, and even the exceptional moments can be tainted by some serious dirt. Take Qin Shi Huang and the British Empire, for example. Sure, they had moments of greatness, but they left a trail of destruction and oppression in their wake.
But don't get me wrong. We have to celebrate exceptional moments in history. They show us what humans can do when we put our minds to it. However, we can't ignore the dark side of history. We have to learn from it. We must understand that history isn't just a simple tale of heroes and villains. It's a complicated mess of human experiences and actions. So, let's study history with a critical eye. Let's be nuanced in our understanding of the past. Let's recognize that history is messy and complicated, and that's okay. We have to learn from past mistakes so we don't repeat them in the future. Luckily, our history is still being written. The path we take next does not need to lead to bloodshed or heartbreak. It can be a road to continued growth and prosperity and not at the expense of others.
THE RUNDOWN
- American exceptionalism means the United States is unique in its beliefs, laws, and history. But it could be better.
- This idea started during the American Revolution when the US became the first new nation with its ideas.
- The problem with exceptionalism is that people might think they can do whatever they want without being moral.
- The US has had problems in the past, like slavery and unequal rights, that show the idea of exceptionalism is flawed.
- Some parts of history are important but only sometimes good. Just because something is unique or powerful doesn't mean it's morally right.
- The British Empire is an example of this - it had greatness and did some good, but it also did terrible things and took advantage of others.
- Looking at the moments in history when people acted strangely or badly can help us learn from our mistakes and understand why things are the way they are today.
STATE OF THE WORLD
HIGHLIGHTS
We've got some fine classroom lectures coming your way, all courtesy of the RPTM podcast. These lectures will take you on a wild ride through history, exploring everything from ancient civilizations and epic battles to scientific breakthroughs and artistic revolutions. The podcast will guide you through each lecture with its no-nonsense, straight-talking style, using various sources to give you the lowdown on each topic. You won't find any fancy-pants jargon or convoluted theories here, just plain and straightforward explanations anyone can understand. So sit back and prepare to soak up some knowledge.
LECTURES
LECTURES
- COMING SOON
READING
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Bentley, Jerry. Traditions & Encounter Volume 1 from Beginning to 1500, 7th ed.: McGraw Hill, 2021 .
Jerry H. Bentley was a historian and academic who specialized in world history, with a focus on cultural and economic exchange, comparative history, and the study of empires. He was a professor at the University of Hawaii and served as the President of the American Historical Association. Bentley wrote several books on world history and globalization, including "Old World Encounters" and he made significant contributions to the field. He passed away in 2014.
- Bentley, Chapter 25: Africa and the Atlantic World
- Bentley, Chapter 26: Traditions and Change in East Africa
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Bentley, Jerry. Traditions & Encounter Volume 1 from Beginning to 1500, 7th ed.: McGraw Hill, 2021 .
Jerry H. Bentley was a historian and academic who specialized in world history, with a focus on cultural and economic exchange, comparative history, and the study of empires. He was a professor at the University of Hawaii and served as the President of the American Historical Association. Bentley wrote several books on world history and globalization, including "Old World Encounters" and he made significant contributions to the field. He passed away in 2014.
Howard Zinn was a historian, writer, and political activist known for his critical analysis of American history. He is particularly well-known for his counter-narrative to traditional American history accounts and highlights marginalized groups' experiences and perspectives. Zinn's work is often associated with social history and is known for his Marxist and socialist views. Larry Schweikart is also a historian, but his work and perspective are often considered more conservative. Schweikart's work is often associated with military history, and he is known for his support of free-market economics and limited government. Overall, Zinn and Schweikart have different perspectives on various historical issues and events and may interpret historical events and phenomena differently. Occasionally, we will also look at Thaddeus Russell, a historian, author, and academic. Russell has written extensively on the history of social and cultural change, and his work focuses on how marginalized and oppressed groups have challenged and transformed mainstream culture. Russell is known for his unconventional and controversial ideas, and his work has been praised for its originality and provocative nature.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.

Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"... The removal of the Indians was explained by Lewis Cass-Secretary of War, governor of the Michigan territory, minister to France, presidential candidate:
A principle of progressive improvement seems almost inherent in human nature. . .. We are all striving in the career of life to acquire riches of honor, or power, or some other object, whose possession is to realize the day dreams of our imaginations; and the aggregate of these efforts constitutes the advance of society. But there is little of this in the constitution of our savages.
Cass-pompous, pretentious, honored (Harvard gave him an honorary doctor of laws degree in 1836, at the height of Indian removal)- claimed to be an expert on the Indians. But he demonstrated again and again, in Richard Drinnon's words (Violence in the American Experience: Winning the West), a "quite marvelous ignorance of Indian life." As governor of the Michigan Territory, Cass took millions of acres from the Indians by treaty: "We must frequently promote their interest against their inclination."
His article in the North American Review in 1830 made the case for Indian Removal. We must not regret, he said, 'the progress of civilization and improvement, the triumph of industry and art, by which these regions have been reclaimed, and over which freedom, religion, and science are extending their sway.' He wished that all this could have been done with 'a smaller sacrifice; that the aboriginal population had accommodated themselves to the inevitable change of their condition... . But such a wish is vain. A barbarous people, depending for subsistence upon the scanty and precarious supplies furnished by the chase, cannot live in contact with a civilized community.'..."
"... The removal of the Indians was explained by Lewis Cass-Secretary of War, governor of the Michigan territory, minister to France, presidential candidate:
A principle of progressive improvement seems almost inherent in human nature. . .. We are all striving in the career of life to acquire riches of honor, or power, or some other object, whose possession is to realize the day dreams of our imaginations; and the aggregate of these efforts constitutes the advance of society. But there is little of this in the constitution of our savages.
Cass-pompous, pretentious, honored (Harvard gave him an honorary doctor of laws degree in 1836, at the height of Indian removal)- claimed to be an expert on the Indians. But he demonstrated again and again, in Richard Drinnon's words (Violence in the American Experience: Winning the West), a "quite marvelous ignorance of Indian life." As governor of the Michigan Territory, Cass took millions of acres from the Indians by treaty: "We must frequently promote their interest against their inclination."
His article in the North American Review in 1830 made the case for Indian Removal. We must not regret, he said, 'the progress of civilization and improvement, the triumph of industry and art, by which these regions have been reclaimed, and over which freedom, religion, and science are extending their sway.' He wished that all this could have been done with 'a smaller sacrifice; that the aboriginal population had accommodated themselves to the inevitable change of their condition... . But such a wish is vain. A barbarous people, depending for subsistence upon the scanty and precarious supplies furnished by the chase, cannot live in contact with a civilized community.'..."

Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
"... Spaniards traversed modern-day Mexico, probing interior areas under Hernando Cortés, who in 1518 led a force of 1,000 soldiers to Tenochtitlán, the site of present-day Mexico City. Cortés encountered powerful Indians called Aztecs, led by their emperor Montezuma. The Aztecs had established a brutal regime that oppressed other natives of the region, capturing large numbers of them for ritual sacrifices in which Aztec priests cut out the beating hearts of living victims. Such barbarity enabled the Spanish to easily enlist other tribes, especially the Tlaxcalans, in their efforts to defeat the Aztecs.
Tenochtitlán sat on an island in the middle of a lake, connected to the outlying areas by three huge causeways. It was a monstrously large city (for the time) of at least 200,000, rigidly divided into nobles and commoner groups.14 Aztec culture created impressive pyramid-shaped temple structures, but Aztec science lacked the simple wheel and the wide range of pulleys and gears that it enabled. But it was sacrifice, not science, that defined Aztec society, whose pyramids, after all, were execution sites. A four-day sacrifice in 1487 by the Aztec king Ahuitzotl involved the butchery of 80,400 prisoners by shifts of priests working four at a time at convex killing tables who kicked lifeless, heartless bodies down the side of the pyramid temple. This worked out to a 'killing rate of fourteen victims a minute over the ninety-six-hour bloodbath.' In addition to the abominable sacrifice system, crime and street carnage were commonplace. More intriguing to the Spanish than the buildings, or even the sacrifices, however, were the legends of gold, silver, and other riches Tenochtitlán contained, protected by the powerful Aztec army..."
"... Spaniards traversed modern-day Mexico, probing interior areas under Hernando Cortés, who in 1518 led a force of 1,000 soldiers to Tenochtitlán, the site of present-day Mexico City. Cortés encountered powerful Indians called Aztecs, led by their emperor Montezuma. The Aztecs had established a brutal regime that oppressed other natives of the region, capturing large numbers of them for ritual sacrifices in which Aztec priests cut out the beating hearts of living victims. Such barbarity enabled the Spanish to easily enlist other tribes, especially the Tlaxcalans, in their efforts to defeat the Aztecs.
Tenochtitlán sat on an island in the middle of a lake, connected to the outlying areas by three huge causeways. It was a monstrously large city (for the time) of at least 200,000, rigidly divided into nobles and commoner groups.14 Aztec culture created impressive pyramid-shaped temple structures, but Aztec science lacked the simple wheel and the wide range of pulleys and gears that it enabled. But it was sacrifice, not science, that defined Aztec society, whose pyramids, after all, were execution sites. A four-day sacrifice in 1487 by the Aztec king Ahuitzotl involved the butchery of 80,400 prisoners by shifts of priests working four at a time at convex killing tables who kicked lifeless, heartless bodies down the side of the pyramid temple. This worked out to a 'killing rate of fourteen victims a minute over the ninety-six-hour bloodbath.' In addition to the abominable sacrifice system, crime and street carnage were commonplace. More intriguing to the Spanish than the buildings, or even the sacrifices, however, were the legends of gold, silver, and other riches Tenochtitlán contained, protected by the powerful Aztec army..."

Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
"... In the 1920s, the offices in the buildings along the eastern edge of the Columbia University campus looked from the hills of Morningside Heights out over Harlem. Rexford Tugwell, a professor in the economics department, occupied one of those offices. From behind his desk in Hamilton Hall, Tugwell could not hear the music but he could see the nightclubs, dance halls, and speakeasies that defined the Jazz Age. And so he waited.
Tugwell had been shut off from the pleasures of the body as a child, when asthma and persistent illnesses kept him confined to bed in his rural and isolated hometown in far-western New York State. He grew into an extraordinarily handsome man, with the dark looks and wavy hair of a silent-screen star. But his illnesses continued, and by the time he reached maturity, he had retreated into a world of books. He was a fan of utopian science fiction, such as H. G. Wells’s In the Days of the Comet, in which mankind, fearing destruction from an onrushing comet, remakes world society into a cooperative commune. Tugwell spent much of his youth conjuring perfect worlds inhabited by perfect people. As an undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania in the 1910s, he fell under the spell of the young economics professor Scott Nearing, who had recently published a book calling for the creation of just such a world. “The kind of social philosophy I was developing under the tutelage of Nearing, reinforced by other instruction,” Tugwell later recalled in his autobiography, “is perhaps best defined in a little book called The Super Race: An American Problem, which Nearing published in 1912.” Nearing argued that the United States should develop, through selective breeding, a race of supermen who would create the world’s first utopia. These ideas, which were bastardized versions of Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy, were then in vogue among German intellectuals who would become the intellectual founders of Nazism.
Tugwell’s other mentor in college was the prominent progressive economist Simon Patten, who had been trained in German universities. “He taught me the importance of looking for uniformities, laws, explanations of the inner forces moving behind the façade of events,” Tugwell remembered. “One of these was the conclusion that our pluralistic system—laissez-faire in industry, checks and balances in government, and so on—must be shaped into a unity if its inherent conflicts, beginning to be so serious, were not to destroy us.” From where did Patten get this benign sounding idea? “He thought that the Germans had the key to that unity in philosophy, in economics, and perhaps in politics. He saw the conflict, now so ominously coming up over the horizon, as one between the living wholeness of the German conception and the dying divisiveness of English pluralism.” Even more ominous was the belief that Patten shared with his German colleagues—who would supply the intellectual basis for Nazism—that industrial capitalism and technological advances had softened and emasculated the people. “Every improvement which simplifies or lessens manual labor,” explained Patten, “increases the amount of the deficiencies which the laboring classes may possess without their being thereby overcome in the struggle for subsistence that the survival of the ignorant brings upon society.” Patten’s solution to this problem was swift, simple, and breathtakingly ruthless. “Social progress is a higher law than equality, and a nation must choose it at any cost,” and the only way to progress is the “eradication of the vicious and inefficient.” But the prescriptions of Nearing and Patten were just academic wishes. Tugwell wished to make them real..."
"... In the 1920s, the offices in the buildings along the eastern edge of the Columbia University campus looked from the hills of Morningside Heights out over Harlem. Rexford Tugwell, a professor in the economics department, occupied one of those offices. From behind his desk in Hamilton Hall, Tugwell could not hear the music but he could see the nightclubs, dance halls, and speakeasies that defined the Jazz Age. And so he waited.
Tugwell had been shut off from the pleasures of the body as a child, when asthma and persistent illnesses kept him confined to bed in his rural and isolated hometown in far-western New York State. He grew into an extraordinarily handsome man, with the dark looks and wavy hair of a silent-screen star. But his illnesses continued, and by the time he reached maturity, he had retreated into a world of books. He was a fan of utopian science fiction, such as H. G. Wells’s In the Days of the Comet, in which mankind, fearing destruction from an onrushing comet, remakes world society into a cooperative commune. Tugwell spent much of his youth conjuring perfect worlds inhabited by perfect people. As an undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania in the 1910s, he fell under the spell of the young economics professor Scott Nearing, who had recently published a book calling for the creation of just such a world. “The kind of social philosophy I was developing under the tutelage of Nearing, reinforced by other instruction,” Tugwell later recalled in his autobiography, “is perhaps best defined in a little book called The Super Race: An American Problem, which Nearing published in 1912.” Nearing argued that the United States should develop, through selective breeding, a race of supermen who would create the world’s first utopia. These ideas, which were bastardized versions of Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy, were then in vogue among German intellectuals who would become the intellectual founders of Nazism.
Tugwell’s other mentor in college was the prominent progressive economist Simon Patten, who had been trained in German universities. “He taught me the importance of looking for uniformities, laws, explanations of the inner forces moving behind the façade of events,” Tugwell remembered. “One of these was the conclusion that our pluralistic system—laissez-faire in industry, checks and balances in government, and so on—must be shaped into a unity if its inherent conflicts, beginning to be so serious, were not to destroy us.” From where did Patten get this benign sounding idea? “He thought that the Germans had the key to that unity in philosophy, in economics, and perhaps in politics. He saw the conflict, now so ominously coming up over the horizon, as one between the living wholeness of the German conception and the dying divisiveness of English pluralism.” Even more ominous was the belief that Patten shared with his German colleagues—who would supply the intellectual basis for Nazism—that industrial capitalism and technological advances had softened and emasculated the people. “Every improvement which simplifies or lessens manual labor,” explained Patten, “increases the amount of the deficiencies which the laboring classes may possess without their being thereby overcome in the struggle for subsistence that the survival of the ignorant brings upon society.” Patten’s solution to this problem was swift, simple, and breathtakingly ruthless. “Social progress is a higher law than equality, and a nation must choose it at any cost,” and the only way to progress is the “eradication of the vicious and inefficient.” But the prescriptions of Nearing and Patten were just academic wishes. Tugwell wished to make them real..."
What Does Professor Lancaster Think?
In the early 16th century, a fierce band of Spanish warriors led by the indomitable Hernando Cortés descended upon the land of the Aztecs. The conquest of Mexico was a tale of bravery and bloodshed, a complex and multifaceted event that would leave a mark on history for generations to come. The Spanish were not alone in their quest to conquer the Aztecs, for the Aztecs' oppressive regime had alienated many of the indigenous tribes of the land. These tribes, yearning for freedom and a chance to cast off the yoke of tyranny, rallied to the Spanish's side; with their aid, the Aztecs were toppled from their lofty perch.
With the conquest of Mexico, the stage was set for the European colonization of the Americas, and a new era had dawned. The echoes of that conquest still reverberate through the annals of time, a testament to the power and determination of those intrepid Spanish conquistadors. It was a turning point in history that would change the world forever. The Spanish conquest of Mexico was made possible by a crucial factor: the oppressive regime of the Aztecs. Through a policy of conquest and subjugation, the Aztecs had erected a vast empire, a society structured by a rigid hierarchy that excluded and oppressed many. This created fertile ground for the Spanish to gain the allegiance of other tribes who yearned to break free from the yoke of their Aztec oppressors and take hold of power.
In 1519, Cortés, a man with a thirst for conquest, landed on the shores of Mexico. The Tlaxcalans, a once-powerful tribe subjugated by the Aztecs, saw a glimmer of hope in the Spaniards. They recognized the potential for an alliance against their oppressors and welcomed the newcomers with open arms. Together, with the help of other native tribes, they marched against the Aztecs and claimed their empire as their own. And so the cycle of dominance and submission continued, as it always has and always will.
The Spanish conquest of Mexico. A pivotal moment in history that brought forth both triumph and tragedy. But let's not forget the dark side of the coin. With the arrival of the Spanish came the spread of European diseases like smallpox, a silent killer that wreaked havoc on the indigenous population. The toll was staggering, with estimates suggesting that as much as 90% of the population perished in the century following the conquest. This catastrophic loss had far-reaching consequences, rippling through the very fabric of indigenous cultures and societies. And let's not kid ourselves; the Spanish didn't achieve their gains through diplomacy and mutual understanding. No, their ascent was marked by violence and exploitation. It's a sobering reminder that even the most glorious victories can come at a steep cost.
When we talk about the Indian Removal in the 19th century, we're talking about an incredibly beneficial and destructive event. On the one hand, this policy of forced displacement helped expand the United States and created new towns and settlements. But on the other hand, it came at the cost of Native American culture and tradition. The rationale behind the Indian Removal was rooted in the government's belief in the superiority of Western civilization. They believed their duty was to "civilize" Native Americans and integrate them into American society. Unfortunately, this was done at the expense of Native American autonomy and sovereignty.
The forced relocation of Native American communities from their ancestral lands to reservations in the West was a traumatic experience that left deep scars on the affected districts. Families were torn apart, traditions were lost, and cultural practices were eroded. However, it's essential to recognize that the Indian Removal also had positive consequences. For example, it created new towns and settlements that helped spur economic growth and development in the United States. It all started in 1830 when President Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act. This legislation paved the way for the forced relocation of tens of thousands of Native Americans from their homes. But it wasn't just any relocation, no sir, and it was a brutal and inhumane forced exodus that would go down in history as the Trail of Tears.
This cruel and heartless act hit the Cherokee Nation the hardest. In 1838, they were forcibly removed from their homes in Georgia and relocated to Oklahoma. And let me tell you; it wasn't a pleasant journey. The trail was littered with bodies, a haunting reminder of the atrocities committed in the name of so-called progress. Thousands of Cherokee died along the way, victims of disease, hunger, and outright violence. Today, we remember the Trail of Tears as a dark moment in American history, when greed and power trumped compassion and humanity. And let's be honest; we still have a long way to go before we can truly make things right with the Native American communities who suffered so greatly at our hands. But one thing is for sure; we can't forget the past, no matter how uncomfortable it may be. Only by facing our history head-on can we hope to create a better future for all.
The tribes were uprooted from their ancestral lands and made to tread the Trail of Tears, a grievous burden. But lo, there were also silver linings to this dark cloud. Mark this, for the relocation of the Native Americans to reservations, served to safeguard their cultures and traditions, which might have been doomed to oblivion, engulfed by the relentless tides of American assimilation. Furthermore, the Indian Removal Act paved the way for new frontiers to be settled by Americans, thus expanding the borders of this great land of ours.
Thus, let it be known that history is a tapestry woven of bright and bleak threads, and we must view it in its entirety to learn from its lessons and take heed of its warnings. As we examine history, we come across an intriguing example of an event that had both positive and negative impacts - the rise of romantic science fiction. This imaginative literary genre, popularized by writers such as H.G. Wells and Jules Verne, espoused creating a superior race of individuals through selective breeding. While this idea may have initially seemed like a promising solution to some, it also carried with it the danger of reinforcing elitist ideas of superiority and inferiority.
This philosophy of selective breeding found its way into the ideas of prominent progressive economists such as Simon Patten and Rexford Tugwell, who believed that by improving the quality of individuals in society, we could create a more harmonious and prosperous world. They saw the creation of a "superior" class of individuals as a solution to the problems plaguing society and a means to achieve utopia. However, the danger of this philosophy was that it perpetuated a social hierarchy based on genetic traits and reinforced the notion of some being inherently better than others. It is essential to recognize the positive aspects of utopian science fiction, such as its emphasis on imagination and creativity, and acknowledge the negative implications that can arise from uncritically embracing such ideologies.
Once upon a time, some clever German eggheads had ideas that would eventually lay the foundation for Nazism. And these ideas significantly influenced the thoughts of big-shot progressive economists, like Simon Patten and Rexford Tugwell, when it came to history. These big-shot economists thought science and technology were the keys to building a better society. And they were big fans of eugenics, which they saw as a tool for making that happen.
The twisted notion of eugenics was used to justify some of the most unspeakable atrocities in human history. From forced sterilizations to the genocidal horrors of the Holocaust, this idea was used to justify the extermination of millions of innocent people. The repercussions of these actions were nothing short of devastating, and the memories of these dark times still haunt us. It's a dark and shameful chapter in our collective history that we must never forget or repeat.
Why should we study the conquest of Mexico, the Indian Removal, and the rise of eugenics? Because these events serve as cautionary tales about power, prejudice, and oppression. They offer insights into how societies can become unequal and how power can be exploited. But it's not all doom and gloom; we can also glean valuable lessons from marginalized groups' stories of resistance and resilience. Despite facing overwhelming odds, these groups have fought against their oppressors and made real progress toward a more just and equal world. So let's not shy away from the uncomfortable truths of history but instead embrace them as opportunities to learn and grow.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
In the early 16th century, a fierce band of Spanish warriors led by the indomitable Hernando Cortés descended upon the land of the Aztecs. The conquest of Mexico was a tale of bravery and bloodshed, a complex and multifaceted event that would leave a mark on history for generations to come. The Spanish were not alone in their quest to conquer the Aztecs, for the Aztecs' oppressive regime had alienated many of the indigenous tribes of the land. These tribes, yearning for freedom and a chance to cast off the yoke of tyranny, rallied to the Spanish's side; with their aid, the Aztecs were toppled from their lofty perch.
With the conquest of Mexico, the stage was set for the European colonization of the Americas, and a new era had dawned. The echoes of that conquest still reverberate through the annals of time, a testament to the power and determination of those intrepid Spanish conquistadors. It was a turning point in history that would change the world forever. The Spanish conquest of Mexico was made possible by a crucial factor: the oppressive regime of the Aztecs. Through a policy of conquest and subjugation, the Aztecs had erected a vast empire, a society structured by a rigid hierarchy that excluded and oppressed many. This created fertile ground for the Spanish to gain the allegiance of other tribes who yearned to break free from the yoke of their Aztec oppressors and take hold of power.
In 1519, Cortés, a man with a thirst for conquest, landed on the shores of Mexico. The Tlaxcalans, a once-powerful tribe subjugated by the Aztecs, saw a glimmer of hope in the Spaniards. They recognized the potential for an alliance against their oppressors and welcomed the newcomers with open arms. Together, with the help of other native tribes, they marched against the Aztecs and claimed their empire as their own. And so the cycle of dominance and submission continued, as it always has and always will.
The Spanish conquest of Mexico. A pivotal moment in history that brought forth both triumph and tragedy. But let's not forget the dark side of the coin. With the arrival of the Spanish came the spread of European diseases like smallpox, a silent killer that wreaked havoc on the indigenous population. The toll was staggering, with estimates suggesting that as much as 90% of the population perished in the century following the conquest. This catastrophic loss had far-reaching consequences, rippling through the very fabric of indigenous cultures and societies. And let's not kid ourselves; the Spanish didn't achieve their gains through diplomacy and mutual understanding. No, their ascent was marked by violence and exploitation. It's a sobering reminder that even the most glorious victories can come at a steep cost.
When we talk about the Indian Removal in the 19th century, we're talking about an incredibly beneficial and destructive event. On the one hand, this policy of forced displacement helped expand the United States and created new towns and settlements. But on the other hand, it came at the cost of Native American culture and tradition. The rationale behind the Indian Removal was rooted in the government's belief in the superiority of Western civilization. They believed their duty was to "civilize" Native Americans and integrate them into American society. Unfortunately, this was done at the expense of Native American autonomy and sovereignty.
The forced relocation of Native American communities from their ancestral lands to reservations in the West was a traumatic experience that left deep scars on the affected districts. Families were torn apart, traditions were lost, and cultural practices were eroded. However, it's essential to recognize that the Indian Removal also had positive consequences. For example, it created new towns and settlements that helped spur economic growth and development in the United States. It all started in 1830 when President Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act. This legislation paved the way for the forced relocation of tens of thousands of Native Americans from their homes. But it wasn't just any relocation, no sir, and it was a brutal and inhumane forced exodus that would go down in history as the Trail of Tears.
This cruel and heartless act hit the Cherokee Nation the hardest. In 1838, they were forcibly removed from their homes in Georgia and relocated to Oklahoma. And let me tell you; it wasn't a pleasant journey. The trail was littered with bodies, a haunting reminder of the atrocities committed in the name of so-called progress. Thousands of Cherokee died along the way, victims of disease, hunger, and outright violence. Today, we remember the Trail of Tears as a dark moment in American history, when greed and power trumped compassion and humanity. And let's be honest; we still have a long way to go before we can truly make things right with the Native American communities who suffered so greatly at our hands. But one thing is for sure; we can't forget the past, no matter how uncomfortable it may be. Only by facing our history head-on can we hope to create a better future for all.
The tribes were uprooted from their ancestral lands and made to tread the Trail of Tears, a grievous burden. But lo, there were also silver linings to this dark cloud. Mark this, for the relocation of the Native Americans to reservations, served to safeguard their cultures and traditions, which might have been doomed to oblivion, engulfed by the relentless tides of American assimilation. Furthermore, the Indian Removal Act paved the way for new frontiers to be settled by Americans, thus expanding the borders of this great land of ours.
Thus, let it be known that history is a tapestry woven of bright and bleak threads, and we must view it in its entirety to learn from its lessons and take heed of its warnings. As we examine history, we come across an intriguing example of an event that had both positive and negative impacts - the rise of romantic science fiction. This imaginative literary genre, popularized by writers such as H.G. Wells and Jules Verne, espoused creating a superior race of individuals through selective breeding. While this idea may have initially seemed like a promising solution to some, it also carried with it the danger of reinforcing elitist ideas of superiority and inferiority.
This philosophy of selective breeding found its way into the ideas of prominent progressive economists such as Simon Patten and Rexford Tugwell, who believed that by improving the quality of individuals in society, we could create a more harmonious and prosperous world. They saw the creation of a "superior" class of individuals as a solution to the problems plaguing society and a means to achieve utopia. However, the danger of this philosophy was that it perpetuated a social hierarchy based on genetic traits and reinforced the notion of some being inherently better than others. It is essential to recognize the positive aspects of utopian science fiction, such as its emphasis on imagination and creativity, and acknowledge the negative implications that can arise from uncritically embracing such ideologies.
Once upon a time, some clever German eggheads had ideas that would eventually lay the foundation for Nazism. And these ideas significantly influenced the thoughts of big-shot progressive economists, like Simon Patten and Rexford Tugwell, when it came to history. These big-shot economists thought science and technology were the keys to building a better society. And they were big fans of eugenics, which they saw as a tool for making that happen.
The twisted notion of eugenics was used to justify some of the most unspeakable atrocities in human history. From forced sterilizations to the genocidal horrors of the Holocaust, this idea was used to justify the extermination of millions of innocent people. The repercussions of these actions were nothing short of devastating, and the memories of these dark times still haunt us. It's a dark and shameful chapter in our collective history that we must never forget or repeat.
Why should we study the conquest of Mexico, the Indian Removal, and the rise of eugenics? Because these events serve as cautionary tales about power, prejudice, and oppression. They offer insights into how societies can become unequal and how power can be exploited. But it's not all doom and gloom; we can also glean valuable lessons from marginalized groups' stories of resistance and resilience. Despite facing overwhelming odds, these groups have fought against their oppressors and made real progress toward a more just and equal world. So let's not shy away from the uncomfortable truths of history but instead embrace them as opportunities to learn and grow.
THE RUNDOWN
- The Spanish conquest of Mexico in the early 16th century was made possible by the oppressive regime of the Aztecs and the alliance of other tribes with the Spanish.
- The conquest brought both triumph and tragedy, with the spread of diseases and violence and exploitation of the indigenous population.
- The Indian Removal in the 19th century forced the relocation of Native American communities from their ancestral lands to reservations in the West to "civilize" them and expand the United States.
- The Indian Removal had both beneficial and destructive consequences, including the loss of culture and tradition, new towns and settlements, and economic growth.
- The Trail of Tears was a dark moment in American history, resulting in thousands of deaths and the uprooting of the Cherokee Nation, but it also helped safeguard Native American cultures and traditions and expand American frontiers.
QUESTIONS
- What factors led to the Spanish conquest of Mexico, and what were the consequences of this conquest?
- In what ways did the oppressive regime of the Aztecs contribute to their downfall, and how did the Spanish take advantage of this situation?
- How can we learn from the mistakes of the past, and what steps can we take to address the lasting impact of historical events like the Spanish conquest of Mexico and the Indian Removal Act?
THE RUNDOWN
In the video, experts explore Talhoffer's Fight Book, a 500-year-old medieval manuscript that provides valuable insights into the technology and warfare of the time. The book contains mysterious images and text written in an ancient German dialect, and the author's portrayal is cryptic. The experts use cutting-edge computer graphics and unorthodox fighting techniques to decipher the book's secrets, including depictions of siege engines, war machines, and an armored tank with cannons. The team tries to build and test a medieval siege device using clues from the past, using hardened leather for armor. The video also explores the history of knights and their tailor-made armor. Additionally, historians at the medieval center in Denmark have built a diving suit based on a 15th-century manuscript, which required much hard work to pump enough air to the diver. While the manuscript offers a glimpse into the complicated and violent medieval world, it still needs to reveal the missing link that made the fight book complete or why the diving suit was used.
KEY TERMS
- Neolithic Science
- c. 4000 BCE) Invention of writing - The invention of writing was one of the most important events in human history, and it allowed for the recording and preservation of knowledge that would shape the future of science.
- (c. 3500 BCE) Discovery of metallurgy - The discovery of metallurgy marked a significant milestone in human history, as it enabled the creation of more durable tools and weapons, leading to advancements in agriculture, architecture, and warfare.
- (c. 3000 BCE) Development of mathematics - Ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians, Egyptians, and Greeks made significant contributions to the development of mathematics, including the creation of number systems, geometry, and algebra.
- (c. 3000 BCE) Emergence of astronomy - The ancient civilizations of Babylon and Egypt were among the first to observe the stars and develop systems for tracking celestial movements, paving the way for the development of modern astronomy.
- (c. 600 BCE) Contributions to physics - The ancient Greeks made significant contributions to the field of physics, including the development of the concept of atoms, the study of motion and energy, and the creation of early models of the universe.
- (c. 300 BCE) Introduction of the scientific method - The scientific method was first introduced by the ancient Greeks, who emphasized observation, experimentation, and critical thinking in the pursuit of knowledge.
- (c. 250 BCE) Advances in engineering - The ancient Greeks and Romans made significant advances in engineering, including the creation of aqueducts, roads, and bridges, that helped to shape the modern world.
- (c. 300 BCE) Establishment of libraries - The establishment of libraries, including the Library of Alexandria, allowed for the preservation and dissemination of scientific knowledge, laying the groundwork for future scientific progress.
- (8th-14th centuries) The founding of the Islamic Golden Age, during which many important scientific advances were made in fields such as mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and chemistry.
- (9th-10th centuries) The translation of ancient Greek scientific texts into Arabic by scholars in the Islamic world, which helped to preserve and expand upon the knowledge of the classical period.
- (9th-10th centuries) The development of algebra and the introduction of Arabic numerals, which greatly improved mathematical calculation and allowed for more complex scientific discoveries.
- (12th-13th centuries) The creation of the first European universities, which helped to foster the growth of scientific learning and research.
- (13th-14th centuries) The development of the scientific method by scholars such as Robert Grosseteste, Roger Bacon, and William of Ockham, who emphasized the importance of empirical observation and experimentation.
- (1088) The establishment of the University of Bologna in Italy, which became one of the oldest and most important universities in Europe and helped to promote the study of science.
- (9th century) The discovery of gunpowder in China, which revolutionized warfare and eventually led to the development of modern firearms.
- (12th century) The introduction of papermaking to Europe from the Islamic world, which allowed for the mass production and dissemination of scientific texts.
- (15th century) The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg, which revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge and helped to spread scientific discoveries more widely.
DISCLAIMER: Welcome scholars to the wild and wacky world of history class. This isn't your granddaddy's boring ol' lecture, baby. We will take a trip through time, which will be one wild ride. I know some of you are in a brick-and-mortar setting, while others are in the vast digital wasteland. But fear not; we're all in this together. Online students might miss out on some in-person interaction, but you can still join in on the fun. This little shindig aims to get you all engaged with the course material and understand how past societies have shaped the world we know today. We'll talk about revolutions, wars, and other crazy stuff. So get ready, kids, because it's going to be one heck of a trip. And for all, you online students out there, don't be shy. Please share your thoughts and ideas with the rest of us. The Professor will do his best to give everyone an equal opportunity to learn, so don't hold back. So, let's do this thing!
Activity: "Discovering Ancient Science"
Objective: To engage students in active learning and critical thinking about the development of science in ancient civilizations.
Procedure:
Activity: Translating Medieval Scientific Texts
Objective: To give students an understanding of the importance of translation in the history of medieval science and to develop their critical thinking and language skills.
Procedure:
THE RUNDOWN
Activity: "Discovering Ancient Science"
Objective: To engage students in active learning and critical thinking about the development of science in ancient civilizations.
Procedure:
- Divide the class into small groups of 3-4 students.
- Provide each group with a set of images or replicas of ancient scientific instruments and a set of printed descriptions or diagrams of ancient scientific discoveries or theories.
- Instruct the groups to examine the images and descriptions, and discuss what they think the instruments were used for, or how the discoveries or theories were developed.
- After some time, ask each group to present their findings to the class.
- Facilitate a class discussion using the list of discussion questions, such as:
- What were some of the challenges faced by ancient scientists, and how did they overcome them?
- How did ancient science influence other areas of ancient life, such as religion, politics, or art?
- What similarities and differences can you identify between ancient and modern scientific methods and theories?
- Conclude the activity by encouraging students to reflect on how the history of ancient science can inform our understanding of science today.
Activity: Translating Medieval Scientific Texts
Objective: To give students an understanding of the importance of translation in the history of medieval science and to develop their critical thinking and language skills.
Procedure:
- Divide the class into groups of 3-4 students.
- Assign each group a scientific text from the medieval period.
- Provide dictionaries and other resources for translation, and give students time to work on translating the text as a group.
- Once the groups have finished translating their texts, distribute the handout with guiding questions for analysis.
- Ask each group to present their translations and to discuss their answers to the guiding questions.
- Facilitate a class-wide discussion on the importance of translation in the history of medieval science, including its impact on the dissemination of knowledge and the role of language in scientific advancement.
- What scientific concepts are discussed in the text, and how do they relate to the broader scientific knowledge of the time?
- What challenges did you encounter in translating the text, and how did you overcome them?
- How does the language of the text reflect the cultural and historical context of the medieval period?
- What can we learn about the transmission of scientific knowledge from the process of translating medieval texts?
THE RUNDOWN
- Science has had a profound impact on human civilization, leaving a lasting legacy on modern science, technology, and medicine.
- The journey of science was filled with obstacles and debates, and it is crucial to examine this period to comprehend the duality of science's history.
- The contributions of our forebears in science form the bedrock of knowledge that we rely on today, but examining the darker side of this era is crucial to learn from past pitfalls.
- The Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Islamic scientists made significant contributions to the fields of anatomy, math, philosophy, medicine, astronomy, and algorithms, among others.
- Progress comes at a cost, as seen in cases such as Socrates and Ibn al-Haytham, who faced persecution for questioning the status quo with their scientific ideas.
- Despite some bumps in the road, ancient and medieval periods have paved the way for breakthroughs in modern science and technology, influencing our world today.
- Delving into the annals of antiquity and the medieval age is vital to understanding the glories and flaws of science throughout history and gleaning wisdom from their pitfalls and trials.
- American exceptionalism is the idea that the United States is inherently different from other nations and entitled to play a positive role on the world stage.
- The problem with American exceptionalism is that it can lead to assumptions that entitle the US to act as peerless interlopers.
- American history is morally flawed due to slavery, civil rights, and social welfare issues, and cannot exemplify virtue.
- The Spanish conquest of Mexico in the early 16th century had both triumph and tragedy, with the spread of diseases and violence and exploitation of the indigenous population.
- The Indian Removal in the 19th century had both beneficial and destructive consequences, including the loss of culture and tradition, new towns and settlements, and economic growth.
- The Trail of Tears resulted in thousands of deaths and the uprooting of the Cherokee Nation but also helped safeguard Native American cultures and traditions and expand American frontiers.
ASSIGNMENTS
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
- Forum Discussion #14
- FINAL VIDEO PROJECT DUE
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #14
The Inforado YouTube channel features a wealth of fascinating and mind-blowing information, as well as engaging top 10 videos. Its content is filled with the most incredible and astonishing facts, providing viewers with a truly captivating experience. Watch this video and answer the following question:
The Inforado YouTube channel features a wealth of fascinating and mind-blowing information, as well as engaging top 10 videos. Its content is filled with the most incredible and astonishing facts, providing viewers with a truly captivating experience. Watch this video and answer the following question:
What can we learn from ancient technologies and practices, such as the 5,000-year-old water system in Iran, Egyptian blue pigment, and the cutting techniques of ancient Egyptians? How might these insights inform our modern innovations and problem-solving approaches, especially in areas like sustainability and resource management?
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
Back in '14, a curious crew of archaeologists dug up a real doozy in Iran: a 5,000-year-old water system made by humans, with pipes of baked mud linking a pint-sized pond to an old settlement spot. But they only have a little time to spare, these diggers - they're racing against the clock to unearth the entire pipeline before the new dam swallows it up. Meanwhile, over in Rome, folks are talking about the Bocca della verita - a hunk of rock that's said to sniff out fibs like a bloodhound. And that isn't all, reader - we've got some hot gossip about Egyptian blue, an ancient pigment that can dial down energy consumption and supercharge solar power output, as long as you use it right. And that's not even half of it, folks. The article's also chattering about how the ancient Egyptians sliced through massive, heavy, and thick stones like they were made of butter. Now ain't that a slice of fried gold?
WORK CITED
Hey, welcome to the work cited section! Here's where you'll find all the heavy hitters that inspired the content you've just consumed. Some might think citations are as dull as unbuttered toast, but nothing gets my intellectual juices flowing like a good reference list. Don't get me wrong, just because we've cited a source; doesn't mean we're always going to see eye-to-eye. But that's the beauty of it - it's up to you to chew on the material and come to conclusions. Listen, we've gone to great lengths to ensure these citations are accurate, but let's face it, we're all human. So, give us a holler if you notice any mistakes or suggest more sources. We're always looking to up our game. Ultimately, it's all about pursuing knowledge and truth, my friends.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
Back in '14, a curious crew of archaeologists dug up a real doozy in Iran: a 5,000-year-old water system made by humans, with pipes of baked mud linking a pint-sized pond to an old settlement spot. But they only have a little time to spare, these diggers - they're racing against the clock to unearth the entire pipeline before the new dam swallows it up. Meanwhile, over in Rome, folks are talking about the Bocca della verita - a hunk of rock that's said to sniff out fibs like a bloodhound. And that isn't all, reader - we've got some hot gossip about Egyptian blue, an ancient pigment that can dial down energy consumption and supercharge solar power output, as long as you use it right. And that's not even half of it, folks. The article's also chattering about how the ancient Egyptians sliced through massive, heavy, and thick stones like they were made of butter. Now ain't that a slice of fried gold?
WORK CITED
Hey, welcome to the work cited section! Here's where you'll find all the heavy hitters that inspired the content you've just consumed. Some might think citations are as dull as unbuttered toast, but nothing gets my intellectual juices flowing like a good reference list. Don't get me wrong, just because we've cited a source; doesn't mean we're always going to see eye-to-eye. But that's the beauty of it - it's up to you to chew on the material and come to conclusions. Listen, we've gone to great lengths to ensure these citations are accurate, but let's face it, we're all human. So, give us a holler if you notice any mistakes or suggest more sources. We're always looking to up our game. Ultimately, it's all about pursuing knowledge and truth, my friends.
- "Science in the Ancient World." Ancient History Encyclopedia, April 7, 2021, https://www.ancient.eu/science/.
- "Science in the Medieval Islamic World." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, April 6, 2021, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Science_in_the_medieval_Islamic_world.
- "Euclid." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., April 16, 2019, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Euclid.
- "Hippocrates." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., March 10, 2021, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Hippocrates.
- Cartwright, Mark. "The Spanish Conquest of Mexico: Causes and Consequences." Ancient History Encyclopedia.
- Ripley, Gabe. "The Indian Removal Act: Causes, Effects, and Legacy." National Park Service.
- Kruse, Kevin M., and Stephen Tuck. "Eugenics in America." The New York Times.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
- (Disclaimer: This is not professional or legal advice. If it were, the article would be followed with an invoice. Do not expect to win any social media arguments by hyperlinking my articles. Chances are, we are both wrong).
- (Trigger Warning: This article or section, or pages it links to, contains antiquated language or disturbing images which may be triggering to some.)
- (Permission to reprint this blog post in whole or in part is granted, provided that the author (or authors) and www.ryanglancaster.com are appropriately cited.)
- This site is for educational purposes only.
- Fair Use: Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education, and research. Fair use is permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
- Fair Use Definition: Fair use is a doctrine in United States copyright law that allows limited use of copyrighted material without requiring permission from the rights holders, such as commentary, criticism, news reporting, research, teaching, or scholarship. It provides for the legal, non-licensed citation or incorporation of copyrighted material in another author’s work under a four-factor balancing test.